There are few things more nostalgic than the taste of a creamsicle on a hot summer day. This Orange Dreamsicle Salad captures that delightful, creamy citrus flavor in a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, potluck, or simply craving a refreshing treat, this recipe is sure to please both young and old alike. The combination of tangy orange Jell-O, creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy Cool Whip, juicy mandarin oranges, and soft marshmallows creates a texture and taste that’s impossible to resist. Be warned: you might find it hard to stop at just one serving, just like Grandma did!
Ingredients
- 1 package (3 oz) Orange Jell-O
- 1 package (3.4 oz) Instant Vanilla Pudding
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip
- 1 can (14 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Orange Jell-O and Instant Vanilla Pudding powders. This step ensures that both flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Pour in 1 cup of boiling water. Whisk the mixture vigorously until both the Jell-O and pudding powders are completely dissolved. The hot water helps activate the gelatin, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Add 1/2 cup of cold water to the bowl. Stir until the mixture is well-blended. The cold water helps to cool down the mixture, preparing it for the next steps.
Step 2: Incorporate the Cool Whip
- Allow the gelatin mixture to cool for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it prevents the Cool Whip from melting and ensures the salad maintains its light, fluffy texture.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip. Use a spatula to combine the ingredients, making sure to create a smooth, creamy consistency. This step adds a delightful creaminess to the salad, mimicking the texture of a creamsicle.
Step 3: Add the Fruit and Marshmallows
- Once the Cool Whip is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth, gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges. Be careful to distribute the oranges evenly throughout the salad to ensure every bite has a burst of citrus flavor.
- Add the mini marshmallows, gently stirring them into the mixture. The marshmallows add a fun, chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Transfer the Orange Dreamsicle Salad mixture into a serving dish or individual dessert cups. This presentation makes it easy to serve and enjoy.
- Cover the dish or cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. Chilling is essential as it allows the salad to set, ensuring a firm, creamy texture.
- Once chilled, the salad is ready to serve. Bring it out just before serving to let it reach a delightful cool temperature. Enjoy the refreshing and invigorating flavors of this crowd-pleasing dessert.
Conclusion :
This Orange Dreamsicle Salad is a delightful twist on a classic treat that will transport you back to carefree summer days with every bite. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. The creamy texture paired with the burst of citrus from the mandarin oranges and the fun chewiness of the marshmallows makes this dish truly irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family picnic, a holiday potluck, or just because you deserve a treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Just be prepared for everyone to ask for seconds—and the recipe!
Enjoy every spoonful of this dreamy, creamy dessert, and make sure to savor the moment just as much as the taste. After all, some things are just too good to stop eating!
Source of the picture : Barbara O’Neill Lectures
